11-08-2023

TechnoAlpin snowmaking system in the far north

The Norwegian archipelago, Spitzbergen, lies in the Atlantic Ocean, far above the Arctic circle and only approximately 1,300 kilometers south of the North Pole. The island boasts a wealth of special features with the 3,500-strong polar bear population exceeding the human population of 2,500 inhabitants. The Polar Night lasts from the end of October through to mid-February every year, and the sun never sets between May and August.

Despite this unique northern location, winter snowfall is still woefully inadequate much to the disappointment of the Longyearbyen ski resort. This is due to an offshoot of the Gulf Stream carrying warm water into the Arctic Ocean.

The municipality of Longyearbyen recently decided to take matters into its own hands and install a TechnoAlpin snowmaking system. First and foremost, this should help transform skiing from an occasional leisure activity into a regular winter pastime for the locals.

The new installation comprises a container with a fully automated turnkey pump and compressor station. The pump on the snowmaking system has a throughput of 35 liters of water per second reaching a pressure of 37 bar while the compressor achieves an output of 5.5 cubic meters per minute.

Pipe laying poses a particular challenge in this terrain. The 500 meters of lines have to be laid above ground and fixed with special anchors in the permafrost. Twelve connection points with hydrants will deliver water and air to the snow guns. A total of 12 manual lances will be used to ensure adequate snow coverage over 600 meters of slope.

TechnoAlpin is proud of its involvement in this unique project complete with specific geographical conditions, and is once again showcasing its expertise in the planning and production of snowmaking systems.